The Economist: The Coming Days Could Prove Decisive For Ukraine
- 12.05.2025, 14:03
The intensity of public diplomacy is indicative of serious behind-the-scenes negotiations.
This is written by The Economist, analyzing the development of the situation around Ukraine and stating the uncertainty and tension before possible peace talks, as well as the fact that Russian dictator Vladimir Putin has again successfully divided the United States and Europe.
According to the publication, Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky challenged Putin to meet with him in person in Turkey's Istanbul on May 15 - on the condition of a ceasefire, which the Kremlin has so far rejected. The move was the latest in a standoff between Ukraine, Russia, U.S. President Donald Trump and European leaders "that is full of uncertainty but represents the best hope for progress since the war began."
The author of the article recalls that during their visit to Kiev, European leaders made a proposal to Russia for an unconditional 30-day cease-fire in Ukraine starting May 12. The aim was to point out that Russia is the party that still wants war and to encourage Trump to put more pressure on Moscow, The Economist writes. However, the US president's post on the social network Truth Social, in which he declared a "potentially great day for Russia and Ukraine", undermined the Europeans' insistence that he had been "on board" with them from the start. By calling for Ukraine to "immediately" agree to Putin's proposed talks in Turkey, Trump deprived Zelensky of a choice.
But his words that "at the very least they will be able to figure out if a deal is possible or not, and if not, European leaders and the U.S. will understand what the situation is and can act accordingly," if interpreted positively, could mean America will get tough with Putin.
"By announcing his participation in the talks, Zelensky hopes to portray Putin as an obstacle to peace and hopes that Trump will finally realize this," emphasizes The Economist.
The intensity of the public diplomacy suggests that serious behind-the-scenes negotiations are underway, and that the next few days may indeed prove decisive. Donald Trump clearly remains the center around which all sides revolve, each tailoring rhetoric to his statements, the author of the article notes. The problem for the US president, however, is that Putin is also playing his own game, equally tough and unyielding.
The Economist summarizes that there is likely to be no ceasefire in Ukraine and, if talks do take place, they are unlikely to lead to any solution anytime soon.
"In other words, the chance for fundamental change seems slim, but at least it exists," the article states.